Diabetes Mellitus
Hypoglycemia And Hyperglycemia
Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood glucose (sugar)
level falls too low. The causes of hypoglycemia are usually related to
too much diabetic medication, the inability to eat for whatever reason
or a sudden increase in activity/exercise without increased calories. A
person may also have a hypoglycemic episode due to a tumor within the
pancreas or liver that causes a sudden release of insulin.
The early symptoms of hypoglycemia are extreme tiredness, a
general feeling of discomfort or nervouseness, irritability, headache,
cold sweats, rapid heart rate and hunger. Later symptoms may include
confusion, hallucinations, blurred or double vision, convulsions,
seizures and coma. Treatment for hypoglycemia is very simple the person
needs some carbs. If the patient is awake give them a drink containing
sugar, if they are not able to drink place a glucose tablet or small
amount of sugar under the tongue. This will raise the blood glucose
level, and you should see an immediate improvement in symptoms.
Prolonged exposure to decreased levels of glucose can cause permanent
brain damage. Even if the blood glucose improves and the person feels
fine you need to contact your doctor so they can determine the cause of
the event. .
Hyperglycemia is when your blood glucose levels are
high. Most of the time this can be managed by taking some medicaion or
exercising, but when they get too high it can lead to a hyperglycemic
hyperosmolar coma in Type II diabetics and Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Type
I diabetisc. Causes are related to lack of insulin or excessive intake
of food or alcohol. Infection can also trigger hyperglycemic episodes
due to the body’s reaction to stress.
The symptoms of
hyperglycemia are similar to those of hypoglycemia including weakness,
excessive thirst, tiredness, confusion, convulsions and coma. These
patients may also experience nausea and vomiting. The treatment for
hyperglycemia is insulin.
Knowing what the patient’s blood
glucose level is prior to treating the patient is a must. If the patient
is awake and you live close enough take them to the hospital, if the
patient is unconscious call emergency services immediately.